Fleet Industry News

Vehicles operated by utility companies and contractors need to ensure they are fit for purpose by equipping them correctly for the job at hand as well as correctly maintained, says Venson Automotive Solutions. The most dangerous scenarios companies face include, overloaded vehicles, poorly secured equipment and issues around roadworthiness. Venson is at this year’s Utility Fleet Forum in Manchester and will be on hand to offer advice to visitors on best practice to ensure vehicles are safe and legally road compliant.

Companies need to take into consideration how and where their vehicles are used, including the working environment and the payload of the goods and equipment they are carrying. Where drivers need to access the vehicle, both inside and outside, all this should be discussed prior to production of the conversion specification.

Organisations also need to make sure their staff are equipped with the knowledge they need to safely operate the vehicle and the on-board equipment, so a thorough vehicle handover, regular vehicle checks and an understanding of Health & Safety implications related to vehicle loading are key. In 2017 Venson is running a number of training seminars around the UK, with the support of the Freight Transport Association, focusing on the safe operation of commercial vehicles.

“When it comes to equipping vehicles, it’s essential to keep in mind the payload quoted by the manufacturer,” explains Operations Director, Gil Kelly at Venson Automotive Solutions. “Fitting crash tested storage equipment such as racking and including a bulk head in the vehicle helps improve driver safety. And whilst equipment can be recycled, any products being reused should meet current legislation. Fitting telematics can also help with some aspects of driver safety and security. It also provides businesses with the data they need to improve operational and business efficiency."

Gill Kelly concludes, “Getting the vehicle specification correct at the outset can save businesses time, money but more importantly improve staff safety. We work closely with clients, using years of experience, to fit all sorts of vehicles for all kinds of industries. Our purpose built workshop in Yorkshire means we can adapt a broad range of fleet vehicles, providing businesses with expert conversions that boost the efficiency and safety of their fleet.”

Venson Automotive Solutions will be at the UTILITY Fleet Forum 16Imperial War Museum North, Manchester21st and 22nd November 2016​